Cronulla’s Barbe Dolan, an ambassador and member of the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s Speakers Network, was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002 when her three children were in primary school.
Despite having successful treatment, five years later she found another lump and was treated with further surgery and chemotherapy.
She has now been clear for 10 years since her last diagnosis.
Barbe is a strong advocate for breast cancer research and now actively shares her story of being diagnosed with breast cancer to help the NBCF raise funds for research into this cancer.
“Since the time I was first diagnosed there has been so much progress in breast cancer research,” she said.
“I’m passionate about supporting NBCF because I don’t want my daughter to go through what I did.
“I’d like to think that maybe in a couple of generations it will just like having a flu that you can treat and get over quickly.”
Barbe said that research was the key to unlocking the next ground-breaking discovery to help those affected by breast cancer.
“I’m so thankful for research, as the advances that have happened over the last 20 years, means that I can share my story, raise awareness and funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation,” she said.
This year Barbe has collaborated with Regallo Woolooware owner, Loretta Veage, and co-designed an exclusive limited edition “Hope” clutch handbag that will suit any woman of any age.
From every bag sold, they will donate $20 of the $99.99 price directly to the NBCF.
Loretta’s #TheOne Hope handbag is a woven black leather envelope clutch, with rose gold hardware.
Inside, it is lined with pink satin – reminiscent of the pink ribbon which is the logo of the NBCF.
It fits a purse, a phone and some on-the-go makeup easily and fits beautifully in the hand, or is easily tucked under the arm.
“I was extremely excited by the opportunity” Barbe said. “This charity is very close to my heart and I am one of the volunteers of the Speakers Network that is part of the NBCF.
“We share our personal stories to raise awareness and funds for Australian-based, world-class cancer research with the aspirational goal of achieving zero deaths by breast cancer by 2030.”
Barbe said the Hope Clutch is the perfect purse to put in the work bag to be pulled out for drinks after work.
“It is such a versatile, beautiful bag, I absolutely love it. One of those versatile bags that will become a firm favourite,” she said.
Every #TheOne Hope clutch comes with its own message of hope from Barbe.
The Hope Clutch is a limited edition bag and is available exclusively from Regallo Woolooware in store and online.
Details: regallo.com.au or Regallo 36 Wills Road Woolooware